As I write this, there are still a few hours left in April 29, at least in this time zone. Final exams start a week from today, and between trying to get my classes ready and dealing with emails from students who are suddenly concerned about bad lab grades they received months ago (and mostly didn’t bother to read the lab syllabus), I’ve not had time to read anything by these gentlemen. So no close look at any work by these guys. Just a shout-out to bring them some recognition. So in order of their births, here are:

Rafael Sabatini

Rafael Sabatini (1875-1950) Best known as the author of Captain Blood, Sabatini wrote historical adventures that were filled with intrigue and swashbuckling, along with more than a dash of romance. He wrote at both novel and shorter lengths. His work is worth searching out. Fortunately, there are electronic compilations of most of his works available for just a few bucks. His most popular books are also available in various print editions.

H. Bedford-Jones (1887-1949) was another writer of historical adventure fiction. He was also probably the most prolific of the three writers sharing a birthday today. A number of his works are available in print and electronic format, most of the from publishers specializing in pulp reprints. Steeger Books currently has 59 volumes in their H. Bedford-Jones Library.

Jack Williamson

Jack Williamson (1908-2006) wrote some of the best science fiction and fantasy of the pulp era. He is one of my favorite writers, and one of the first I read when I began reading adult fiction as opposed to what at the time were called juveniles.

The Jack Williamson Lectureship, which is held every April at Eastern New Mexico University was canceled last year. This year it was online, with the panelists and participants attending by Zoom. Not as enjoyable as leaving town and going to Portales, but the sessions I managed to attend were quite enjoyable.